Tour of Britain brings Â£6m to Devon

The Devon stage of this year's Tour of Britain generated £6m for the local economy, a new report has revealed.

The research, commissioned by the tour's organiser, revealed that the 110-mile route stretching from Exmouth to Exeter attracted 230,000 spectators, 14 per cent of which stayed the night.

The data is based on the findings of an online survey of more than 2,600 spectators.

Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council cabinet member with responsibility for cycling, said: "This year was another triumph for the Devon Stage of the Friends Life Tour of Britain, and we're thrilled that it has generated another significant amount of spending in the county.

"We've always aimed for to ensure Devon is a cycling county, and the worldwide TV coverage provides long term recognition of what Devon has to offer cyclists. Although the race won’t visit Devon next year, we’ll be looking at the possibilities for 2016."

Devon has hosted part of the race for the past eight years and in that time has attracted 1.25 million visitors and £33m.

Race director Mick Bennett added: "We have worked with Devon County Council over the past eight years, seeing the race grow in size and stature, and showcasing the county's towns, cities and countryside with some brilliant racing on ITV4.

"We will continue to work closely with Devon County Council and look at plans for 2016."